Our Summary
This research paper is about a common surgical procedure called septoplasty, which is done to fix a deviated septum - the thin wall inside your nose that separates your nostrils. Sometimes, the first surgery doesn’t completely fix the problem and a second surgery, or revision septoplasty, is needed.
The study looked at 74 adults who had to have this second surgery and tried to figure out why the first one didn’t work. They found that the first surgeries were often done in smaller hospitals and the most common issue was with the lower part of the septum.
They also found that the shape of the septum played a role, with ‘C’ shaped deviations being more common than ‘S’ shaped ones. Different techniques were used in the second surgery to fix the problem, including removing the part that was still deviated, adjusting the cartilage, or using a graft.
The study found that the second surgery was generally successful. Patients reported less discomfort and measurements showed that the shape and volume of the nasal cavity improved. The researchers concluded that these second surgeries might be avoided if the initial problem, particularly with the lower part of the septum, is carefully evaluated and the right surgical technique is used.
FAQs
- What is a septoplasty and why might a second surgery be needed?
- What were the key findings from the study about factors affecting the success of the initial septoplasty?
- What techniques were used in the second surgery to correct the issues from the first one, and were they successful?
Doctor’s Tip
A helpful tip a doctor might tell a patient about septoplasty is to make sure to follow all post-operative instructions carefully, including keeping the nasal passages clean and avoiding strenuous activities that could disrupt the healing process. It’s also important to attend all follow-up appointments to monitor progress and address any concerns or complications that may arise. Additionally, maintaining good nasal hygiene, such as using a saline nasal spray, can help promote healing and prevent infections.
Suitable For
Patients who are typically recommended for septoplasty are those who have a deviated septum that is causing symptoms such as difficulty breathing, nasal congestion, frequent sinus infections, or snoring. These symptoms can significantly impact a person’s quality of life and septoplasty is often recommended to correct the issue.
In some cases, the first septoplasty surgery may not completely fix the problem, leading to the need for a revision septoplasty. Patients who may be recommended for a second surgery are those who continue to experience symptoms after the initial surgery, or those who have developed new symptoms or complications.
The study mentioned above provides insights into the types of patients who may benefit from revision septoplasty. Patients who have a ‘C’ shaped deviation of the septum, especially in the lower part, may be more likely to require a second surgery. Additionally, patients who had their initial surgery in smaller hospitals may also be at a higher risk of needing a revision septoplasty.
Overall, patients who have persistent symptoms related to a deviated septum despite undergoing a septoplasty may be recommended for a revision surgery. It is important for these patients to undergo a thorough evaluation by a qualified surgeon to determine the underlying issues and to choose the most appropriate surgical technique to achieve successful outcomes.
Timeline
Before Septoplasty:
- Patient experiences symptoms of a deviated septum such as difficulty breathing, nasal congestion, snoring, and frequent sinus infections.
- Patient consults with an ENT specialist who recommends septoplasty as a solution.
- Pre-operative tests and evaluations are conducted to assess the severity of the deviation and determine the best course of action.
- Surgery is scheduled and patient is given instructions on how to prepare for the procedure, including fasting and avoiding certain medications.
After Septoplasty:
- Patient undergoes septoplasty surgery, which typically takes around 1-2 hours and is performed under general anesthesia.
- Patient is monitored in a recovery room before being discharged to go home the same day.
- Patient may experience pain, swelling, and nasal congestion in the days following surgery and is prescribed pain medication and nasal decongestants.
- Patient follows post-operative care instructions, which may include nasal irrigation, avoiding strenuous activities, and attending follow-up appointments.
- Over the next few weeks, patient gradually experiences improved breathing and reduced symptoms of a deviated septum.
- Patient’s nasal passages continue to heal and any residual swelling subsides, leading to long-term improvement in nasal function.
What to Ask Your Doctor
Some questions a patient should ask their doctor about septoplasty include:
- What are the potential risks and complications associated with septoplasty?
- How long is the recovery process and what can I expect in terms of pain and discomfort?
- What are the chances that I may need a revision septoplasty in the future?
- What factors contributed to the need for a second surgery in the patients studied in this research paper?
- What specific techniques will be used in my septoplasty surgery to ensure the best possible outcome?
- How will you determine if the lower part of my septum is the primary issue and how will you address it during the surgery?
- Will I need any additional procedures, such as a graft or cartilage adjustment, during my septoplasty surgery?
- What can I do to help ensure the success of my septoplasty surgery and minimize the chances of needing a revision surgery in the future?
- How will you monitor my progress after the surgery and what signs should I look out for that may indicate a potential issue?
- Are there any alternative treatments or therapies that may be beneficial for my specific situation?
Reference
Authors: Lee DJ, Jo H, Kwon HN, Park JH, Kim SD, Cho KS. Journal: Sci Rep. 2022 Nov 15;12(1):19574. doi: 10.1038/s41598-022-23772-y. PMID: 36380114